Name: Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup butter, softened; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp butter, softened; 1 cup sugar-free or semisweet chocolate chips; 2 tbsp heavy cream

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe is a showstopper dessert that brings the nostalgic charm of Buckeye candy into cookie form, only bigger, softer, and even more indulgent. Imagine biting into a giant, chewy peanut butter cookie layered with a luscious peanut butter filling and crowned with silky chocolate ganache — it’s like your favorite candy and the ultimate cookie had a delicious lovechild. This dessert is perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want to treat yourself and friends to something irresistibly rich and peanut buttery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and plates arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients for baking. There are two eggs in a small white bowl toward the top center, with white sugar in a bowl next to them. Toward the bottom right, there is a white bowl filled with small brown sugar crystals. A larger white bowl in the middle is filled with white flour. Below that is a bowl of white powdered sugar. To the left, there is a white bowl with soft butter cubes and next to it another bowl with a light brown sauce. There is also a pile of dark brown chocolate chunks on the right side of the flour bowl. Small bowls with vanilla and salt are scattered around the arrangement. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together seamlessly to create a cookie base that’s soft and full of peanut butter goodness. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and that classic Buckeye vibe.

½ cup butter, softened: Adds rich moisture and tenderness to the cookie dough.
½ cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient delivering that iconic nutty flavor.
½ cup brown sugar: Provides subtle molasses notes and chewiness.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with the cookie’s structure.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients while contributing to softness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the sturdy but tender base of the cookie.
½ tsp baking soda: Gives a gentle rise and light texture.
¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
½ cup creamy peanut butter (filling): For a creamy, luscious middle layer.
¼ cup powdered sugar (filling): Sweetens and thickens the peanut butter filling.
1 tbsp butter, softened (filling): Adds richness and smooth texture to filling.
1 cup sugar-free or semisweet chocolate chips (ganache): Provides silky chocolate topping that’s not too sweet.
2 tbsp heavy cream (ganache): Turns chocolate chips into a velvety ganache.

How to Make Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cookie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8 to 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is delightfully smooth and fluffy — this is where the cookie’s tender, rich texture begins.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, which will bind everything together and bring a subtle sweetness and warmth to the cookie base. These simple additions transform the dough into a luscious batter ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these to your wet mixture, stirring until it forms a soft dough. Don’t overmix — the goal is a tender, chewy base that holds its shape but remains soft.

Step 4: Bake the Cookie Base

Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula or fingers. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the edges turn a lovely golden color but the center remains soft. Let the cookie cool completely in the pan to ensure the filling will spread nicely without melting.

Step 5: Prepare and Spread the Peanut Butter Filling

While the cookie cools, whip together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter until silky and smooth. This filling adds the signature richness and creamy texture that makes this Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe unforgettable. Spread it generously over the cooled cookie base, covering every inch.

Step 6: Make and Pour the Chocolate Ganache

Gently melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream, either over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until silky smooth. Pour the ganache evenly over the peanut butter layer, letting it cascade slightly over the edges for that decadent “finished” look. Chill the whole cookie for at least 20 minutes to set before slicing into generous wedges.

How to Serve Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe

Several trays of chocolate chip cookies are placed on a wooden table with a warm tone. The cookies are light golden brown and topped with many dark chocolate chips, with a soft and chunky texture, arranged in rows across four cooling racks. The background shows wooden chairs and a wicker cabinet, with a cozy indoor setting. The photo is clear and bright, showing the details of the cookies and the room. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate ganache after pouring but before chilling. This tiny touch elevates the flavors with a subtle salty crunch that perfectly complements the sweet peanut butter and chocolate layers. For an extra festive look, top with chopped roasted peanuts or drizzle a little extra melted peanut butter over the ganache.

Side Dishes

This cookie is a decadent treat that shines on its own, but pairing it with a cold glass of milk or a smooth coffee can balance the richness beautifully. For parties, offer fresh fruit or lightly salted nuts on the side to contrast the cookie’s indulgence and provide variety for your guests.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe as dessert wedges on colorful plates, garnished with a dusting of cocoa powder or a few fresh mint leaves to brighten the presentation. For a party, cut into bite-sized squares and thread onto skewers with marshmallows and strawberries for a fun, interactive dessert platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cookie’s peanut butter filling and ganache layer keep well but staying cool helps maintain the perfect texture and prevents the chocolate from getting soft. Leftovers taste fantastic for up to 5 days when stored properly.

Freezing

Want to enjoy this Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe later? Wrap slices individually with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookie slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This will soften the ganache and filling just enough without melting completely, delivering that cozy, fresh-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds an exciting texture contrast within the soft cookie and creamy filling, making each bite more interesting and nutty.

Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Yes! You can modify this Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe by swapping regular sugars for keto-friendly sweeteners and using an almond flour substitute to keep carbs low while still enjoying the classic flavors.

Can I make this cookie larger or smaller?

Of course—adjust the pan size accordingly. Just keep an eye on baking times; larger pans may require a bit longer, smaller ones less. The key is a golden edge with a soft center.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the ganache?

You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, though the ganache might be slightly less rich and thick. Using cream creates the silkiest texture, but alternatives still yield delicious results.

How do I prevent the crust from sticking to the pan?

Line your pan generously with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends over the edges for easy lifting. This simple step ensures your giant cookie comes out in one perfect piece every time.

Final Thoughts

If you love peanut butter and chocolate, this Giant Buckeye Cookie Recipe is a must-try treat that promises crowds of smiles and happy hearts. It’s an absolute joy to bake and share, delivering layers of flavor and texture that feel special but come together with surprisingly simple ingredients. Go ahead and whip one up for your next celebration — it’s destined to become someone’s new favorite cookie!